What are the molecular mechanisms underlying cytoskeletal alterations in cancer?
Multiple molecular mechanisms drive cytoskeletal alterations in cancer. Genetic and epigenetic changes result in the aberrant expression of cytoskeletal proteins and their regulators. For example, mutations in the gene encoding E-cadherin can disrupt cell-cell adhesion, promoting cytoskeletal rearrangement and increased motility. Additionally, signaling pathways such as the PI3K/AKT and MAPK pathways can modulate the activity of cytoskeletal regulators, promoting cancer cell survival and invasion. The overexpression or mutation of these pathways leads to enhanced cytoskeletal dynamics, facilitating the aggressive behavior of cancer cells.
